A fatal accident occurred early Sunday morning along Old Ipaja Road near Agbotikuyo in Lagos when a 40-foot container-laden Mack truck crashed into a commercial minibus, killing the driver instantly and leaving three passengers injured.
According to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the truck with registration number MUS 729 XY reportedly suffered brake failure before ramming into the minibus, locally known as 'Korope'.
LASTMA officials rescued three passengers from the wreckage and transferred them to medical personnel for assessment. Though the passengers appeared physically unharmed, they were taken for precautionary medical evaluation.
Traffic Disruption and Emergency Response
The incident caused significant traffic disruption, blocking a substantial portion of the roadway and creating congestion that spilled into adjacent streets including Shofunde and Olufunlayo. LASTMA personnel quickly implemented traffic diversion strategies to manage the resulting gridlock.
The truck driver, who attempted to flee the scene, was apprehended by LASTMA officers and handed over to the Nigeria Police. Officers from both the Elere and Area 'G' Police Divisions were present to assist in managing the situation.
Emergency responders from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASAMBUS), and the Nigeria Police collaborated in recovering the deceased, securing the area, and restoring order.
Government Response
Hon. Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, extended condolences to the bereaved family and emphasized the urgent need for strict roadworthiness among heavy-duty vehicle operators.
"Truck operators must adhere strictly to safety protocols. It is non-negotiable that every articulated vehicle undergo thorough mechanical inspection, especially the braking systems, before hitting the road. Preventable tragedies like this must end," Giwa stated.
He also reiterated the Lagos State Government's commitment to enforcing road safety laws, strengthening emergency response mechanisms, and ensuring full compliance with vehicle inspection standards.
This incident highlights the ongoing concerns about road safety in Lagos, particularly regarding heavy-duty vehicles and their maintenance standards.
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